WEDNESDAY 20th SEPTEMBER 2023
Luke 7, 31-35
“John the Baptist came, neither eating nor drinking, and you said he had a demon; the Son of Man comes, eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at this glutton and drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners'”.
John the Baptist’s line in life was one of harsh austerity. Living in the desert he fed on insects and wild honey. He carried this austerity also in the way he dressed and even in the way he related to others.
Jesus is very different. His austerity has only one motive and one purpose: the proclamation of the Kingdom and unconditional service to others.
He only goes into the desert to pray to the Father and to confirm his mission. We see Jesus always surrounded by people. He interacts with all those who seek him or whom he seeks.
He eats with people, talks with people, cares for people, rejoices with people and even cries with people.
Live like Jesus: in austerity. But, also like Jesus, savour life. Be open to relationships and to fellowship. Live the joys and anxieties of your people and your world. And may your austerity always be motivated and caused by your love and dedication to others.
Good day to you.
Antonio Sanjuan Cmf
